An MD-80 Flight Crew reported dispatching with a fuel pump inoperative; and losing the second pump in climb. They returned to departure airport and exercised emergency authority for an overweight landing.
Synopsis
An MD-80 Flight Crew reported dispatching with a fuel pump inoperative; and losing the second pump in climb. They returned to departure airport and exercised emergency authority for an overweight landing.
Narrative
Left with one left main fuel tank boost pump inoperative and placarded. On climb out passing approximately 27;000 FT the left main inlet fuel pressure low light illuminated. The CB for the remaining boost pump in the left tank had tripped. I; pilot monitoring; gave the radios to my First Officer pilot flying and accomplished the QRH procedures. I told the First Officer to get a lower altitude and get us headed back to departure airport. IAW the QRH procedure we had the fuel cross feed closed and were suction feeding the left engine from the left main tank; the center tank was now empty. The inlet fuel pressure low light remained illuminated. Also IAW the QRH we had descended to a lower altitude; I think it was FL240. I advised Dispatch of the situation and told them we were returning. After talking to Dispatch I realized that we would be slightly overweight for landing. I resumed control of ATC radio communications and I declared an emergency with ATC. I briefed the Flight Attendants and the passengers that we would be returning. We completed an ILS touching down at 130;500 LBS; First Officer flying. Equipment was standing by; but not used. We taxied to the gate. Maintenance took the aircraft out of service.
Second reporter narrative
I think the Captain did an excellent job of communicating with me and making timely decisions. It was just like flying a LOFT. The fact that we have been flying together for over 10 years did not hurt either.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.